Hyland's Heroes: Jordan Light

Jordan is the tall one in the back left / photo provided by the Light family

The following feature is a part of a bi-weekly series, sponsored by Hyland Insurance. "Hyland's Heroes" is a series of profiles that spotlight Louisville area Catholic volunteers, coaches and administrators who assist athletic programs and teams, and help promote excellence in all aspects of sports.

St. James and Trinity alum Jordan Light is the head basketball coach of the St. James seventh/eighth grade team.

When and how did you get your start with coaching?

This is my first time officially coaching, but when my younger brother played basketball at St. James, I would always try and hang around practice and offer to help out his teams whenever I could.

Who asked you to contribute or what got you involved?

My step dad Tony is the school’s athletic director, and he asked me to coach the 7/8 grade team because no parents had volunteered to do so.

What’s the connection with your faith and giving your time to student athletes?

The faith connection is very good for me because I enjoy being in an environment where there is a very religiously-centered mindset and approach, and coaching at St. James allows for this to happen.

Who was the most influential person on your volunteer career? Why?

My dad is the most influential person for me, mostly because I remember all the years he coached me in different sports and how he tried to positively shape every player that joined his team. I watched him have such a positive outlook and kindness even when watching his team make mistakes and it had a lasting impact on me.

What are your major themes/principle as a volunteer?

A major theme for me would be being this metaphorical helping hand to all those I come across. For the kids on my team, if they ask me questions I'm always going to do my best to answer them and help them get better.

What does your role at your school bring your family?

More than anything the role brings my family and I pride. My brother and I both went to St. James K-8 and our youngest brother is in the 4th grade there now, so we enjoy the chance to give back to the school in whatever way we can.

What are the fondest experiences or memories you have of your volunteer time?

This year my favorite memory has been seeing some of the kids on the team that were in first or second grade the year I graduated St. James, it's pretty surreal to see those that I remember. But in general, my senior year at Trinity I volunteered at Sacred Heart preschool and that was my favorite volunteering memory. Working and interacting with younger kids was a very enjoyable experience for me.